ESPN REPORT: Kalani Sitake Shocks College Football, Turns Down $7.5M Offer from Georgia, Notre Dame to Stay at BYU: “My Only Plan Is Being BYU’s Head Coach—Nothing More, Nothing Less”
In a move that has left the college football world stunned, BYU head coach Kalani Sitake has reportedly turned down a lucrative $7.5 million annual offer from two of the nation’s most prestigious programs—Georgia and Notre Dame—to remain at the helm of the Cougars.
Sitake, who has steadily built a respected program in Provo, made his intentions crystal clear in a statement released Wednesday morning: “I have no plans beyond being the BYU head coach. This is home. This is family. I’m exactly where I want to be.”
Sources close to the situation confirmed that both Georgia and Notre Dame aggressively pursued Sitake following the unexpected exits of their respective head coaches this offseason. Each school reportedly offered a multi-year deal worth $7.5 million annually, a massive increase over Sitake’s current contract with BYU, which is believed to be in the $2–3 million range.
But Sitake’s decision wasn’t about money.
“This program is built on more than just wins and losses,” Sitake told reporters following a spring practice session. “We’re building character, community, and lasting impact. That matters more to me than any paycheck.”
The 49-year-old coach has led BYU through some of its most successful seasons in recent memory, including an 11–1 campaign in 2020 that elevated the Cougars to national prominence. Known for his player-first mentality, humility, and strong ties to the university’s faith-based mission, Sitake has become a beloved figure both within the BYU community and throughout college football.
“This is huge,” said ESPN college football analyst Kirk Herbstreit. “It’s not often you see a coach turn down that kind of money and those kinds of opportunities. Georgia and Notre Dame are blue-blood programs. But Sitake’s loyalty to BYU speaks volumes.”
Fans in Provo and across the LDS community erupted in celebration after the announcement, flooding social media with messages of support and gratitude. BYU Athletic Director Tom Holmoe also released a statement, saying, “Kalani represents everything good about BYU. We are beyond thrilled that he has reaffirmed his commitment to this program and this university.”
Sitake’s choice could have ripple effects across college football. With two major programs still in search of their next head coach, the coaching carousel continues to spin—with one less top candidate on the board.
For now, Kalani Sitake is locked in on one goal: leading BYU into a new era of Big 12 competition and continuing to build on the foundation he’s laid since becoming head coach in 2016.
“I’m just grateful,” Sitake said. “Grateful for the players, the staff, the fans, and the faith that keeps this program grounded. We’ve got work to do, and I’m all in.”
In a sport often defined by fast moves, big paychecks, and high turnover, Sitake’s decision to stay put is a rare—and refreshing—testament to loyalty, mission, and heart.
